Catalytic Converter — General Information and Precautions (BMW 3 Series E46)

The catalytic converter is a simple and reliable device that does not require any maintenance, but there are several points that a car owner should know if he wants the converter to perform its functions properly throughout its entire service life.

• a) Do not use gasoline with additives containing lead or its compounds - lead will coat the surfaces of the neutralizer and gradually render it completely unusable.
• b) Always maintain the fuel and ignition systems in good condition, perform all scheduled maintenance work on them in accordance with the manufacturer's schedule.
• c) If the ignition system is not working properly, do not use the car at all (at the very least - as rarely as possible) until you fix the problem
• d) Do not tow or push start the engine - the fuel will flood the converter and then overheat it when the engine starts.
• d) Do not turn off the ignition at high engine speeds.
• e) Do not use any additives to fuel or motor oil - these additives may be harmful to the neutralizer.
• g) Stop using your vehicle if the engine consumes too much oil or if blue smoke comes from the exhaust pipe.
• h) Remember that the catalytic converter operates at very high temperatures. Do not park the car on dry grass, piles of dry leaves or other flammable material after a long drive.
• i) Remember that the neutralizer is very fragile - do not throw it, do not hit it during repair work.
• c) In some cases, exhaust gases may smell like hydrogen sulfide (what does rotten eggs smell like). Don't be alarmed - this is normal for most neutralizers. After several thousand kilometers of running, this will pass, l) A catalytic converter, subject to regular engine maintenance and careful driving, can last from 80,000 to 150,000 km. If the neutralizer has stopped performing its functions, it must be replaced.